dye coupler print on paper, 6/15

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For the last three decades, photographer Edward Burtynsky has been examining the intricate relationship between human industry and nature, exposing the resulting contradictions of such an uneasy coexistence. Burtynsky’s large-scale photographs capture the raw elements of mining, quarrying, manufacturing, shipping, oil production, and recycling in exquisite detail, proving beauty and humanity can be found in the most unlikely of places. This work is from a series that focuses on oil extraction and delivery. Here Burtynsky concentrates on the abstract and formal beauty of the accidental patterns created in the oil fields that scar the landscape in a horrific manner. In 2005 the artist made a significant donation to the WAG, including this exceptional image, of 40 photographs that span his extraordinary career.